2027: Enugu Catholic Diocese rolls out measures to promote good governance, civic education

Enugu Diocese Launches Initiative to Enhance Governance and Civic Participation Ahead of 2027 Elections

ENUGU, Nigeria — The Catholic Diocese of Enugu, in collaboration with the Catholic Institute for Development, Justice, and Peace (CIDJAP), has introduced a new initiative aimed at fostering good governance, civic education, and active citizen engagement in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections.

Launched at St. Theresa Catholic Church in Abakpa, the initiative, titled Church for Community Care and Good Governance (CCGG), seeks to strengthen the relationship between the Church and local communities.

During the unveiling ceremony, Uche Ugwu, Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly, along with Vita Ndu, Chairman of Ezeagu Local Government Area, expressed their commitment to supporting the initiative. Both officials emphasized the importance of collaboration between religious institutions and government bodies in advancing community development and ensuring accountable leadership.

“Both the Church and the state government share the responsibility of enhancing the welfare of our people,” Ugwu stated, urging a partnership to promote effective governance.

Ndu, addressing the audience under the theme “The Role of Faith and Priestly Leadership in Transforming Communities and Governance,” highlighted the need for leadership that prioritizes service, empowerment, and environmental change. He asserted that effective governance hinges on a commitment to serve the community rather than pursuing personal interests.

He added that priests hold significant influence within their communities and can play a crucial role in fostering social development, particularly at the grassroots level. Ndu encouraged clergy members to back political leaders who demonstrate a commitment to serving their constituents.

“I commend the Catholic Church for its effort in launching this initiative,” Ndu said, assuring that his administration would align with CCGG objectives and engage with various stakeholders to further community progress.

In his remarks, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Longinus Ikenna Ugonwa, the CCGG Project Lead, explained that the initiative is intended to bridge the gap between political leaders and the pressing concerns of citizens. He clarified that CCGG operates as a non-partisan platform focused on promoting truth, responsible citizenship, and the common good, rather than serving as a vehicle for political partisanship.

“Our goal is not to dictate thought but to empower citizens to understand issues, ask informed questions, and make responsible decisions,” Ugonwa said, outlining plans to utilize podcasts, radio programs, interviews, documentaries, and social media to raise awareness of community issues and encourage dialogue.

He emphasized that the initiative aims to foster constructive engagement between the public and government institutions, stating, “Governance works better when people are informed, and institutions remain open to dialogue.”

Ugonwa also mentioned CCGG’s collaboration with various Church bodies, including the Justice, Development, and Peace Commission, Diocesan Communication, and Catholic Youth Organisation of Nigeria, to support civic education and community involvement.

In his welcome address, CCGG Coordinator Dr. Chinonso Opah characterized the initiative as a starting point for ongoing conversations, collaborative partnerships, and tangible efforts to enhance community well-being. He expressed gratitude to the bishops for their leadership and acknowledged Msgr. Prof. Francis Obiora Ike for his vision in launching the initiative.

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